Welcome to "The Level Up" edition of the Mind Game podcast with Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud, where we delve into the world of personal growth, mindset, and habits to help you achieve your fullest potential. In this special solo episode, we explore the transformative power of habits and how they shape our lives. Drawing from insightful research and personal anecdotes, our goal is to provide actionable strategies to cultivate positive habits and shift your mindset toward progress.
1. Understanding Habits: We explore the definition of habits, highlighting their automatic and subconscious nature. We emphasize the importance of becoming aware of our habits, as they strongly influence our daily actions and long-term outcomes.
2. The Intersection of Habits and Mindset: Exploring the connection between habits and mindset, we delve into the concept of perspective and its impact on our perception of ourselves and the world. We compare a growth mindset with a fixed mindset, encouraging listeners to embrace change and adopt a growth-oriented approach.
3. The Power of Neuroplasticity: We introduce the concept of neuroplasticity, emphasizing the brain's ability to adapt and rewire itself over time. We explain how engaging in new experiences and learning opportunities can enhance neuroplasticity, facilitating the formation of new habits and perspectives.
4. Shifting Perspectives: Providing a practical tip for listeners, Stephanie suggests flipping the narrative from "I have to" to "I get to" as a means of reframing daily tasks and obligations. Demonstrating how this simple mindset shift can foster gratitude, resilience, and a sense of empowerment.
5. Embracing Small Changes: Encouraging listeners to start small, we advocate for the power of incremental progress. Stephanie highlights the compounding effect of consistent habits, urging viewers to focus on making tiny improvements each day rather than striving for perfection.  It’s the persistent pursuit of progress not perfection that will keep us moving forward.
6. Design your Environment: Stephanie underscores the importance of crafting an environment conducive to positive habits. From surrounding oneself with supportive individuals to designing physical spaces that promote healthy behaviors, she emphasizes the role of the environment in shaping our habits and mindset.
Conclusion:
As the episode draws to a close, Stephanie encourages listeners to embark on their journey of personal growth with intentionality and resilience. By cultivating awareness of their habits, embracing a growth mindset, and implementing small changes, individuals can unlock their full potential and level up their lives.
Join us for future episodes as we continue to explore strategies for personal transformation and empowerment in the “The Level Up” edition of the Mind Game podcast. Stay tuned for Part 2 to learn more about habits. Key topics: Habits, mindset, progress, growth mindset, neuroplasticity, discipline, consistency, transformation, personal development, multi-tasking, Myth of mediocrity, environment, progress not perfection
 
For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life
Visit: ⁠⁠⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ @MindGame.LevelUpYourLife ⁠⁠Stephanie@MindGameLevelUpYourLife.com⁠⁠
Episode 11 (Part 1) The Level Up: Unlocking Your Potential through the Power of Habits & Mindset Part 1
Guest: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud (Live from Saskatchewan)
Host: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Produced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud
Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023 Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License
Mind Game: Level Up Your Life Date February 18, 2024

When Fiction Becomes Real – The Story Behind Real Fiction Studios with Director Jason Brooks - Episode 10 (Part 2)
Are you ready for Part 2 of our conversation with writer, actor, director, and special fx artist, Jason Brooks?  In this episode of Mind Game Level Up Your Life, we dive deep into the world of special fx, creativity, and the life lessons that only come with experience. We go all the way back to 1996 to explore the evolution of Real Fiction Studios, a Pacific Northwest film, makeup, and special FX company.  Join us as Jason shares the inception of the studio's name, his journey in the industry, and the importance of pausing to appreciate the community around you.  Because it’s the amazing network of people you meet along the way, who help bring your vision to life. Join us as we delve into the soul questions of the Mind Game podcast and for the first time we witness the unique, unfolding story of a “Never” in progress. 
**What does Real Fiction Studios do?**
Jason and his team focus on special effects makeup, props, costumes, and body casting for the film industry. From crafting wounds and prosthetics to creating full silicone bodies for cinematic scenes, Jason shares the diverse and innovative work of Real Fiction Studios.
**Navigating Creativity and the Search for Inspiration**
And where does a writer, actor, director, and special FX artist find inspiration? Join us as we explore the eclectic influences that fuel the creativity behind the scenes.
**The Lessons only Life Experience can Reveal:**
Uncover the pivotal moments in Jason's career, including a missed opportunity with Amazon (the younger audience won’t want to miss this tip) and how the closure of a cosmetics company opened the door to move forward in the career he loves.
**Advice to Younger Self**Gain valuable insights as Jason reflects on his youth and emphasizes the importance of believing in yourself and the gifts that you have. Explore his reflections on facing challenges, the cyclical nature of life's ups and downs, and the continual improvement that arises from these experiences when you look for the level-up inside the challenge.
What’s the one question that Jason wished someone would ask him?You’ll have to join us to find out.
Connect with Real Fiction Studios:
Website: https://www.realfictionstudios.com/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@realfictionstudios
The Death of Snow White: Explore Jason’s latest project, a terrifying dark fantasy film set to captivate horror fans with its unique take on the classic fairy tale. Check out https://www.deathofsnowwhite.com/ for exclusive updates and details.
Check out Real Fiction Studios – Killin It Makeup and Studio Gearhttps://realfictionfx.com/
Instagram:
Real Fiction Studios: https://www.instagram.com/realfictionstudiosfx/Jason Brooks: https://www.instagram.com/thejasonbrooksofficial/
Keywords:  Mindset, Growth Mindset, Mind Game, the level up, resilience, independent film making, corporate journey, Amazon, Microsoft, special effects artist, acting, writing, directing, filmmaking, behind the scenes, Real Fiction Studios, Special Effects Makeup, Special FX Makeup, Special FX, Practical FX, Creativity, Creativity Strategies, Life Lessons, Community Building, Perseverance, Jason Brooks, The Jason Brooks, Podcast Interview, Mindset, Resilience
For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life
Visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠⁠ @MindGame.LevelUpYourLife⁠Stephanie@MindGameLevelUpYourLife.com⁠
Episode 10 (Part 2) When Fiction Become Real – The Story Behind Real Fiction Studios with Guest Jason Brooks
Guest: Jason Brooks(Live from Washington)
Host: Stephanie Pipke-PainchaudProduced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023 Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License
Mind Game: Level Up Your Life Date February 11, 2024 

In this episode of the Mind Game Level Up Your Life, we go behind the scenes with writer, actor, director, and special effects artist, Jason Brooks.  We explore the evolution of Jason’s career from his time in the corporate world of Amazon and Microsoft to becoming a creative force in the independent film industry. We discuss how a fascination with special effects and a willingness to look for the opportunities to learn opened the doors from the world of e-commerce into the realm of horror films.  
Jason is known for playing, the iconic slasher, Jason Voorhees in Friday the 13th Vengeance, as well as, writing, directing, acting and leading the special fxs team in the follow-up Friday the 13th Vengeance 2 Bloodlines.
Jason's story is a testament to the transformative power of pursuing one's true passions grounded in a genuine appreciation of how surrounding yourself with an amazing team brings the magic of storytelling to life. This episode is packed with the behind-the-scenes journey and the spirit of embracing your true calling.
Join us as we unravel the fascinating chapters of Jason Brooks' life, where creativity, innovation, and the willingness to learn bring Real Fiction to life.
Connect with Real Fiction Studios:
Website: ⁠www.realfictionstudios.com⁠ YouTube Channel: ⁠www.youtube.com/@realfictionstudios⁠
The Death of Snow White: Explore Jason’s latest project, a terrifying dark fantasy film set to captivate horror fans with its unique take on the classic fairy tale. Check out ⁠www.deathofsnowwhite.com⁠ for exclusive updates and details. Instagram:
Real Fiction Studios: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/realfictionstudiosfx/⁠ Jason Brooks: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/thejasonbrooksofficial/⁠
 
Key Topics: Mindset, Growth Mindset, Mind Game, the level up, resilience, independent filmmaking, corporate journey, Amazon, Microsoft, special effects artist, acting, writing, directing, filmmaking, behind-the-scenes
For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life Visit:⁠⁠⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠⁠⁠ @MindGame.LevelUpYourLife ⁠⁠Stephanie@MindGameLevelUpYourLife.com⁠⁠ Episode 9 (Part 1) Bringing Real Fiction to Life with guest Jason Brooks
Guest: Jason Brooks (Live from Washington)
Host: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Produced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023 Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License
Mind Game: Level Up Your Life February 4, 2024 

In a world where challenges are inevitable and the storms of life are unpredictable, many of us ponder the art of navigating through the chaos. Today, we're joined by Allison Wyman, a caregiving attorney, consultant, and coach, who sheds light on transforming life's challenges into opportunities for growth and empowerment. Drawing from personal caregiving experiences, Allison shares insights into not just surviving but thriving through adversity. We explore the intricate connection between mindset and the ability to level up in the face of challenges and how the ultimate level-up is having the tough conversations in advance of the storm. Allison reflects on the "Soul Questions" of the Mind Game podcast and how the nevers push up towards our sometimes-unrealized purpose.
Delving into the shift from knowing to doing, we reflect on how acknowledging barriers may pave the way for our first courageous steps forward. The discussion takes us into the realm of Yin Yoga, drawing parallels between the idea that a yoga pose really begins when we think it should end just as the true essence of a difficult future caregiving conversation comes from staying present even when the conversation is hard.
Drawing inspiration from the Japanese art of Kintsugi, we contemplate how the storms of life may break us, but the golden repairs should be celebrated rather than hidden. Perhaps in the end it’s what breaks us that actually shapes us into the unique individuals, we are meant to be.
In the end, the ultimate level up in life is preparing for the hard conversations so that when the time comes, you can navigate through them, knowing your loved ones have guided your way back home.
**Special Announcement**
Curious about preparing your family for caregiving journeys? We're excited to share that we've partnered with Allison.
Visit the ⁠Mind Game website⁠ to explore her Free Masterclass opportunities, find information on how to join the Cozy Caregiver Café, and discover “How Your Family Can Win in Caregiving” Allison's insightful course.
⁠https://www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com/p/how-your-family-wins-in-caregiving-with-allison-k-wyman/⁠
Key Topics: Family Caregiving, preparing for caregiving, caregiving resources, the level up, personal development, self-growth, beauty in the broken, golden repairs, celebrating imperfection, Yin Yoga, mindful movement, positive mindset, growth mindset, mindset shift, #mindgame #LevelUpYourLife #Mindgamelevelupyourlife #thelevelup #soulquestions #AllisonKWyman
For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life
Visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠⁠ @MindGame.LevelUpYourLife ⁠Stephanie@MindGameLevelUpYourLife.com⁠
 
Episode 8 (Part 2) Navigating the Storms of Life with Allison K. Wyman  – What if What Breaks You Really Shapes You Guest: Allison K. Wyman (Live from New York) Host: Stephanie Pipke-PainchaudProduced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023 Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License
Mind Game: Level Up Your Life January 28, 2024 

Have you ever wondered what you will do when it’s time to care for a loved one? How you might start conversations with aging family members or those in need of care? How you might begin to prepare for the journey ahead?
In life, the true level up is to live each day to the fullest, to experience the journey, and leave a legacy for generations to come – the challenge of life is that no one gets out alive which means at some point you may become a caregiver for family or friends. In this episode of Mind Game Level Up Your Life, I invite you to step out of your comfort zone and into the Cozy Caregiver Café with guest Allison Wyman, a family caregiving attorney, consultant, and coach who has experienced firsthand how caring for loved ones can change you in ways you never expected.  
Join us as we learn more about Allison’s two-time cancer caregiver story and how when she returned to work as a lawyer, after supporting her mother through cancer, she recognized and felt called to support her clients on a more holistic level.  Being a caregiver touches our lives in many ways, Allison thoughtfully shared that preparing to be a caregiver in advance of the storm will help you better navigate through it when the time arrives.  
Having those difficult conversations not just about money, finances, or estate planning, but how setting boundaries for yourself as a caregiver helps you help others. It turns out that capturing the stories of our loved ones not only creates a legacy for family it also helps us make informed decisions to navigate the storms of life when they arrive. Allison has created a course and a growing community of caregivers so that together we can walk each other home and out of the storm.
Topics: How to Win at Caregiving, Family Caregiving, Caregivers, Leave a Legacy, Planning Ahead, Connection, Cozy Caregiver Café, Community, Caring for Loved Ones I’m excited to share that I’ve partnered with Allison so Mind Game listeners can learn more about Allison’s course and Cozy Caregiver Café.  PS – She’s also offering FREE Masterclasses to learn about the three 3 things to consider when planning ahead. You can learn more about this topic on t⁠he Mind Game website. ⁠ For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life Visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠⁠ @MindGame.LevelUpYourLife⁠Stephanie@MindGameLevelUpYourLife.com⁠
 
Episode 7 (Part 1) Walking Each Other Home Guest: Allison K. Wyman
(Live from New York) Host: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud
Produced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023 Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License
Mind Game Level Up Your Life
January 21, 2024 

Episode 6: The “Nevers” That Shape Our Lives – Reflections on the Stories In-Between 
A thought-provoking episode with Katie White as she recaps her habits to level up that we discussed in part 1 and we dig into how a life defined by our nevers and the stories we tell ourselves might just reveal the purpose we were meant for.  
In part 1, we explored the lessons of the in-between when we make the leap from the known to the unknown and how the magic comes from the courage to relax into the in-between because often it will take you to somewhere you never imagined. 
In this episode, we delve into the reflective questions of the mind game podcast and consider how the “best things that never happened” might actually shape our lives more than we ever imagined. We wonder if everyone feels called to follow their purpose and why is it often easy to see the thing that lights other people’s soul on fire yet so much harder to embrace our own purpose.
What if the best things that never happened are truly what shape and expand the possibilities of our futures and the extraordinary life depends on whether we trust the process of change or cling to the known?  
We consider the privilege of aging and the perspective that comes with realizing we don’t have all the time in the world. Does this empower us to let go of the things that no longer serve us including FOPO – the fear of other people’s opinions? 
Join us as we reflect on the “nevers” and how they may purposefully carry us to the unimagined places creating the stories of our lives.  
Topics: The space between, the in-between, best things that never happens, the stories we tell ourselves, FOPO – Fear of Other People’s Opinions, Spotlight Effect, habits – visualization, releasing what no longer serves us, perspective, mindset.  
For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life Visit: ⁠⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠⁠   @MindGame.LevelUpYourLifeEmail:  ⁠Stephanie@MindGameLevelUpYourLife.com⁠ 
Episode 6 (Part 2) The “Nevers” that Shape Our Story  Reflections on the In-Between 
Guest: Katie White (Live from Saskatchewan)  Host: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud 
Produced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud  Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License  
Mind Game: Level Up Your Life 
January 11, 2024 

Have you ever felt like you were stuck in the space between what was and what could be and then you started to wonder if where you thought you were going wasn’t quite where you were meant to be?
In this episode, we welcome Katie White, educator, author, coach, facilitator, and international speaker.  We begin by exploring what happens when we say “Yes” to things outside of our comfort zone and the habits that can help us navigate the uncomfortable in-between space.  Katie and Stephanie discuss setting intentions, the value of visualizing and imagining the clarity of the outcome, as well as, delving into what happens when you end up in the space between. 
The space between what was and what will be, the journey between the known and the unknown, from where we are to where we think we should go, and the beautiful transformation that happens in-between.   It's the often overlooked, uncomfortable, and sometimes lonely space of the level-up filled with the ups and downs of the mind game. We explore how discomfort is actually a sign of growth and how bumping up against and stepping outside of your comfort zone is where the magic happens. It’s the courage to trust the process and to be gentle with yourself as you transition sometimes in a less-than-straight line to the next step.And, as Katie reminds us, sometimes where you end up isn’t where you thought you were going at all, it’s actually so much better.
In this episode of Mind Game, I am excited to introduce you to my long-time friend, Katie Whtie, as we wonder about the transformative power that lies within the uncomfortable, the habits that help us level up, and the realization that the magic of the in-between is that without it we’d never get to the places we didn’t know we needed to be.
For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life Visit: ⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠ @MindGame.LevelUpYourLife Stephanie@MindGameLevelUpYourLife.com
Episode 5 (Part 1) The Lessons of the In-Between
Guest: Katie White(Live from Saskatchewan) Host: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud
Produced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023 Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License
Mind Game Level Up Your Life
January 5, 2024

Faith, Hope & the Journey Home – The Story of Chance, Remington & Gunner
Welcome to Mind Game.  If you are an animal lover, you might need a box of Kleenex for this episode as we feel all the lows and highs of this journey.  We join Kacey Pierson to hear the story of her 3 missing dogs, 6 days of searching, and an unwavering belief that together they would find him.  
This is the golden legacy of Chance & Remington, the search for Gunner, and a testament to the power of faith, hope, and the possibilities that unfold when a community comes together.  As we dive into this extraordinary chain of events we witness a family’s unyielding love for their dogs, the kindness of strangers, and the faith that will lead Gunner home.
This is the story of Gunner, a Golden Retriever, his family, and the resilience of the human spirit. This is Faith, Hope, and the Journey home.
For more information about Mind Game Level Up Your Life Visit: ⁠⁠www.mindgamelevelupyourlife.com⁠⁠ @MindGame.LevelUpYourLife Episode
Episode 4: Faith, Hope & the Journey Home – The Story of Chance, Remington & Gunner
Guest: Kacey Pierson (Live from Texas) Host: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud
Produced by: Stephanie Pipke-Painchaud Music by: Epicaly – LiteSaturation – Pixabay November 2023 Free for Use under the Pixabay Content License
Mind Game: Level Up Your Life December 30, 2023